Effects of anabolic steroids during adolescence

The gains made by athletes in uncontrolled observations have been
much more impressive. Weight gains of thirty or forty pounds, coupled
with thirty percent increases in strength, are not unusual. Such case
studies lack credibility because of the absence of scientific
controls. However, it would be foolish to completely disregard such
observations because the "subjects" have been highly trained and
motivated see the articles on pharmacology of sport
and sports medicine in the countries of the former Soviet Union for
more information on anabolic steroids.

Anabolic processes tend toward "building up" organs and tissues . These processes produce growth and differentiation of cells and increase in body size, a process that involves synthesis of complex molecules . Examples of anabolic processes include the growth and mineralization of bone and increases in muscle mass. Endocrinologists have traditionally classified hormones as anabolic or catabolic, depending on which part of metabolism they stimulate. The classic anabolic hormones are the anabolic steroids , which stimulate protein synthesis, muscle growth, and insulin . [3] The balance between anabolism and catabolism is also regulated by circadian rhythms , with processes such as glucose metabolism fluctuating to match an animal's normal periods of activity throughout the day. [4]

Scientists have attempted to test the association between anabolic steroids and aggression by administering high steroid doses or placebo for days or weeks to human volunteers and then asking the people to report on their behavioral symptoms. To date, four such studies have been conducted. In three, high steroid doses did produce greater feelings of irritability and aggression than did placebo, although the effects appear to be highly variable across individuals. In one study, the drugs did not have that effect. One possible explanation, according to the researchers, is that some but not all anabolic steroids increase irritability and aggression. Recent animal studies show an increase in aggression after steroid administration.

Transdermal patches (adhesive patches placed on the skin) may also be used to deliver a steady dose through the skin and into the bloodstream. Testosterone-containing creams and gels that are applied daily to the skin are also available, but absorption is inefficient (roughly 10%, varying between individuals) and these treatments tend to be more expensive. Individuals who are especially physically active and/or bathe often may not be good candidates, since the medication can be washed off and may take up to six hours to be fully absorbed. There is also the risk that an intimate partner or child may come in contact with the application site and inadvertently dose himself or herself; children and women are highly sensitive to testosterone and can suffer unintended masculinization and health effects, even from small doses. Injection is the most common method used by individuals administering AAS for non-medical purposes. [45]

Male patients with carcinoma of the breast , or with known or suspected carcinoma of the prostate .

Carcinoma of the breast in females with hypercalcemia ; androgenic anabolic steroids may stimulate osteolytic resorption of bone .

Nephrosis or the nephrotic phase of nephritis .

WINSTROL (anabolic steroids) can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman.

WINSTROL (anabolic steroids) is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant. If this drug is used during pregnancy , or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus .

Effects of anabolic steroids during adolescence

Transdermal patches (adhesive patches placed on the skin) may also be used to deliver a steady dose through the skin and into the bloodstream. Testosterone-containing creams and gels that are applied daily to the skin are also available, but absorption is inefficient (roughly 10%, varying between individuals) and these treatments tend to be more expensive. Individuals who are especially physically active and/or bathe often may not be good candidates, since the medication can be washed off and may take up to six hours to be fully absorbed. There is also the risk that an intimate partner or child may come in contact with the application site and inadvertently dose himself or herself; children and women are highly sensitive to testosterone and can suffer unintended masculinization and health effects, even from small doses. Injection is the most common method used by individuals administering AAS for non-medical purposes. [45]